Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are up there with monstera, fiddle leaf figs, philodendrons, and ZZs as some of the most popular house plants in the world. They're all over interior decor Pinterest boards, and it's not hard to see why—peace lilies have sophisticated deep green leaves and elegant white spathes that class up literally any space.
These plants are low-maintenance and tolerant of low light. They'll even make the air in your home a tad safer to inhale. So take a nice deep breath, grab your hot beverage of choice, and learn how to be a good plant parent.
When selecting a peace lily, look for signs of damage and discoloration. Avoid spots on the foliage, yellowing leaves, or a sagging plant—you may be able to revive the specimen with a drink of water, but it's better not to take a chance. Check underneath the leaves for pests, too.
Sure, peace lilies enjoy being crowded in their pots, but they still require the occasional transplant. Replanting every spring can help the plant thrive with fresh soil and keep it from outgrowing its current home. Especially if the peace lily begins to wilt every few days, even with regular watering, it is time to replant to a pot that won’t need to be watered as often.
When transplanting, move them to a pot only slightly bigger than the existing pot, no more than a third larger than the root ball. Peace lilies are resilient, so they can be handled a bit rough while transplanting.
After planting your peace lily, nurture it with Organic Plant Magic to ensure it thrives.
Plants thrive in conditions that mimic their native home. The peace lily is a shade-loving plant from the tropical rainforests of South America and Southeast Asia. It likes 12 hours of filtered sunlight, and direct sunlight can scorch its beautiful foliage. A lack of light, though, will hamper flowering, which is a big part of the plant's appeal.
Depending on where you live, you may want to get a grow light to help your peace lily during winter. Place your plant in an east-facing window if possible.
To meet the unique sunlight requirements of your peace lily, consider using a LORDEM Grow Light.
Peace lilies are known as very dramatic plants. They will suddenly start to wilt if they do not have enough water, and this is a good reminder to water them immediately. They'll reward your diligence by perking back up just a few hours after.
Generally, keep the soil moist and, when the top inch of the soil is dry, give the plant more water until it starts coming out of the bottom of the pot. Since they are native to tropical rainforests, peace lilies can be misted, which helps keep their leaves from getting dusty, but it is not necessary to keep them healthy.
Tropical rainforests are warm and steamy, and there's constant evaporation. Humidity levels should be above 50%; picking up a hygroscope makes checking this very easy. Peace lilies enjoy a weekly misting on their leaves during warmer months, so keep a spray bottle on hand.
If your tap water is full of chlorine, use filtered water and make sure the water is not cool. Peace lilies don't like drafts and long stretches of cold weather—exposure can kill them.
If you are getting flowers, but they are weak or green, your fertilizer could be the cause. Green flowers can mean too much fertilizer, whereas weak flowers can mean that the plant needs more or different fertilizer that's high in phosphorous.
Peace lilies can grow fine without fertilization for quite some time, and it's a bit of gardener's choice when it comes to frequency. Some fertilize every six weeks, while others wait until the plant shows signs that it needs a bit of help. Especially if you fertilize often, pop the plant in the sink every six months or so and flush it with water to keep salts from building up in the soil.
Grab a pair of secateurs or garden scissors, because pruning encourages new growth and prevents disease. Trim your peace lily whenever you notice parts of the plant are dead. For example, you'll need to remove wilted flowers at some point after they finish blooming and shrivel up.
Remove leaves with black spots, as well as drooping stalks. Use sharp, sterilized cutting tools, or you could cause infection. You can shape a peace lily to fit your space better, although this may stunt its growth.
Repotting a peace lily is pretty straightforward. Choose a new moisture-wicking terracotta container about one to two inches wider—a pot that's too much bigger may lead to root rot. Water the plant and wait an hour to make the roots more malleable. While you wait, fill the upgraded pot with potting soil until it's about three-quarters full.
Gently grab the stalk and lift, loosen the soil around the root ball, and check whether the top of the root ball will end up an inch below the pot's rim. Adjust the soil level accordingly, place the plant in its new home, and add more fresh potting soil to cover the root ball before lightly watering. Even if there are signs of sagging and transplant shock after the big move, give your plant some time in the right conditions, and it will bounce back. The roots are unsettled and can take up to a week to adapt. If there's no improvement and it's in the same spot where it usually does well, pests or diseases may be the issue.
After repotting your peace lily, display it beautifully and ensure it gets adequate light on each tier with an AUGOSTA 3 Tier Plant Stand.
If you want more peace lilies in your home, it's fairly simple to divide the plant into smaller plants. When transplanting, split the lily into smaller clumps. Be sure to keep at least a few leaves to a clump. If you want to experiment a bit, one of the divided sections can be rooted in water. Peace lilies are fairly willing to grow this way as long as the base of the plant is kept above the water, so it doesn't rot.
If you already have enough peace lilies, the new plants can make wonderful gifts to friends or family, especially as a housewarming gift to someone who is just starting a plant collection.
Your peace lily may develop a darkish coating on its leaves or stalks. Fungal infections can be lethal, and you should quarantine your plant if you suspect it has one; otherwise, it could infect other plants too.
Try and save your plant by cutting out affected areas and applying a fungicide, but spores are resilient, so prevention is better than cure. Paying attention to your plant's health is the key to keeping it alive.
Aphids, mites, mealybugs, and scale sometimes infest peace lilies. Use a hose to wash them away, and back your efforts up with insecticidal soap spray. Test the product on a small part of the plant; if it hasn't responded poorly to the pesticide a day later, you can apply it elsewhere.
Organic neem oil is a relatively safe option to use as a spot treatment. Whichever product you choose, follow the instructions for optimal results.
Peace lilies are the best welcome home you could ask for, and they're sure to impress guests who come over when you place them in a big pot near your front door. Big, bushy plants can sit in tall pots on the floor, and mid-sized to small pots look great on side tables.
Keep it cute in a shallow, round bowl, or allow one to stretch magnificently out of a tall vase in the corners of the room.
Peace lily spathes are always white, but if you're yearning for some color and gloss, the anthurium is a lovely alternative that comes in shades of pink and red. Cast iron plants have similar deep green foliage and are non-toxic, so they may be more suitable for your home. Dracaena glauca, the "good luck" plant, is excellent for air purifying and looks just as lush.
Peace lilies are a hazard if you have young kids or pets, so keep them out of reach. They contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic. When any part of the plant is licked or chewed, you can expect swelling, drooling, an upset stomach, or trouble breathing in your cats and dogs.
Help prevent more serious issues by cleaning your pet's mouth and giving them something cold to eat or drink. These misnamed plants are not deadly like real lilies, but you should contact your vet if symptoms continue.
There are many types of peace lilies. Sensation peace lilies are big, growing up to six feet tall, and make fabulous space fillers. The leaves can reach 20 inches long. The white stripe peace lily's name says it all, the domino peace lily has subtle white streaks on its leaves, and the Picasso variety has unusual white foliage.
Some peace lily varieties can tolerate light better than others.
Peace lilies are a popular house plant, and did you know that their lush green leaves are not just for show? Peace lilies actively neutralize harmful indoor pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde, and other volatile organic compounds. So, by incorporating a peace lily into your living or working space, you're making a statement about aesthetics and health. Over time, as the plant grows and flourishes, you'll notice a tangible difference in the air quality, making every breath a little fresher, a little purer, and a testament to the power of nature.
But how do you care for these air-purifying beauties?
Hailing from the dense, humid rainforests of Central and South America, peace lilies have evolved to thrive under the canopy, shielded from direct sunlight but basking in consistent warmth and moisture. To truly make them feel at home, it's important to recreate this environment as much as possible.
Place them in a well-lit room away from direct sunlight, and ensure the soil remains consistently moist. A layer of mulch can help retain moisture, and regular misting can replicate the humid conditions of their native habitat, ensuring they remain vibrant and healthy.
Temperature plays a pivotal role in the well-being of peace lilies. These tropical masterpieces thrive in a consistent temperature range of 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Any sudden fluctuations, especially cold drafts, can stress the plant, leading to drooping leaves or inhibited growth.
This means that it's essential to choose a spot for them that's away from frequently opened windows or doors, especially during the chillier months. By maintaining a stable, warm environment, you're not just catering to their basic needs but setting the stage for lush growth and spectacular blooms.
While peace lilies are relatively low-maintenance, they benefit from periodic feeding, especially during their growth phase. Opting for organic houseplant fertilizer offers a gentle yet effective way to provide them with essential nutrients, which promotes healthier roots, lusher leaves, and more vibrant blooms.
But, make sure you stay away from chemical fertilizers, as they can sometimes be too harsh for your peace lily, leading to burnt tips or discolored leaves.
Watering is a critical aspect of peace lily care. These plants thrive in moist soil but can't tolerate standing water, which can lead to root rot. The ideal watering frequency depends on the humidity and temperature of your surrounding environment. Typically, watering once a week is sufficient, but if you notice the soil drying out sooner, you may need to water more frequently.
To ensure proper drainage, use a container with a drainage hole and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. You can also mist the leaves with water occasionally, which helps to improve the humidity level around the plant.
By following these simple care guidelines, you can ensure that your peace lily remains healthy vibrant, and keeps your air clean and fresh for years to come.
Despite their serene appearance, peace lilies pack a punch when it comes to their toxicity levels, especially to curious pets and little ones. The culprit is calcium oxalate crystals that, if chewed or ingested, can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like mouth swelling and an upset stomach. It's wise to place these plants out of reach and know the first aid steps, such as rinsing the mouth and seeking professional medical or veterinary advice if symptoms persist.
Selecting the perfect abode for your peace lily isn't just about aesthetics; it's about health. A pot that's too large can lead to waterlogging, while too small a container might cramp its style – literally. A breathable terracotta pot that's just a tad bigger than the root ball ensures your peace lily has room to grow without risking root rot. Plus, it's a stylish addition to any space.
Even the hardiest of peace lilies can fall victim to the occasional pest invasion. Spider mites and aphids, tiny as they are, can wreak havoc on your plant's health. Keeping an eye out for the tell-tale signs of infestation, like sticky leaves or webbing, is crucial. Gentle washing or organic insecticidal soap can send these pests packing, ensuring your peace lily continues to thrive.
Fungus gnats are more than just a nuisance; they're a sign that your peace lily's soil might be a little too damp. These pests love moist environments, but letting the soil dry out slightly between waterings can discourage them from setting up shop. For persistent problems, a bit of diatomaceous earth on the soil surface or sticky traps can help keep the population in check.
Encouraging your peace lily to produce those iconic white blooms requires a bit of finesse. While they're not demanding, ensuring they receive bright, indirect light and a balanced fertilizer can make all the difference. Remember, patience is key. With the right conditions, your peace lily will reward you with its elegant flowers when it's ready.